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Writing and Functionalisation of Suspended DNA Nanowires on Superhydrophobic Pillar Arrays
Author(s) -
Miele Ermanno,
Accardo Angelo,
Falqui Andrea,
Marini Monica,
Giugni Andrea,
Leoncini Marco,
De Angelis Francesco,
Krahne Roman,
Di Fabrizio Enzo
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
small
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.785
H-Index - 236
eISSN - 1613-6829
pISSN - 1613-6810
DOI - 10.1002/smll.201401649
Subject(s) - nanowire , materials science , nanotechnology , mesoscopic physics , fabrication , template , substrate (aquarium) , coating , nanoparticle , semiconductor , optoelectronics , medicine , oceanography , physics , alternative medicine , pathology , quantum mechanics , geology
Nanowire arrays and networks with precisely controlled patterns are very interesting for innovative device concepts in mesoscopic physics. In particular, DNA templates have proven to be versatile for the fabrication of complex structures that obtained functionality via combinations with other materials, for example by functionalisation with molecules or nanoparticles, or by coating with metals. Here, the controlled motion of the a three‐phase contact line (TCL) of DNA‐loaded drops on superhydrophobic substrates is used to fabricate suspended nanowire arrays. In particular, the deposition of DNA wires is imaged in situ, and different patterns are obtained on hexagonal pillar arrays by controlling the TCL velocity and direction. Robust conductive wires and networks are achieved by coating the wires with a thin layer of gold, and as proof of concept conductivity measurements are performed on single suspended wires. The plastic material of the superhydrophobic pillars ensures electrical isolation from the substrate. The more general versatility of these suspended nanowire networks as functional templates is outlined by fabricating hybrid organic–metal–semiconductor nanowires by growing ZnO nanocrystals onto the metal‐coated nanowires.